The minister’s decision means there is no need to control exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) under the ADGSM.
The decision follows the notification of intent (NOI) the minister issued on 1 April 2026 to consider if there will be a domestic gas shortfall.
The minister based her decision on new information the department received showing:
- Gas storage facilities are at or near full capacity.
- Existing pipeline infrastructure is sufficient to transport gas to southern markets if needed.
- The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts a warmer than average winter across Australia, suggesting reduced gas demand to meet domestic heating needs.
Further, the Australian Energy Market Operator’s (AEMO) powers to redirect gas to domestic consumers are enough to respond to any unforeseen supply issues.
In making this decision, the minister considered advice from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and the AEMO. The minister also consulted and engaged with:
- state and territory governments
- international trade partners
- Australian gas producers.
The Australian Government does not expect a domestic gas supply shortfall to occur on the east coast during the third quarter of 2026, based on the new assessment.
Until the start of the Domestic Gas Reservation Scheme, the department will continue its quarterly assessments of domestic gas supply to support Australia’s energy needs.